Newsroom
The ISOTITAS Private Sector Nursery Teachers' Class Council warns that extending the operating hours of private kindergartens will negatively impact teachers without adequately considering their work-life balance or the quality of education.
As the primary providers of early childhood education in Cyprus due to the lack of state-run nurseries, private kindergarten teachers play a crucial role in child development. However, they face deteriorating work conditions, including long hours, low wages, and unpaid labor on weekends and holidays.
The Council opposes the hiring of unqualified personnel to address understaffing, as it undermines the profession and educational quality. Instead, they advocate for alternative solutions, such as neighborhood childcare systems and structured evening programs, which have been effective in other European countries.
They also call for fair employment regulations, including a minimum wage that reflects their qualifications and responsibilities, to attract new professionals and improve the sector.
Urging authorities to engage in meaningful dialogue rather than implementing fragmented policies, the Council stresses the need for collaborative efforts to ensure quality education and fair working conditions for nursery teachers.
With information from Ygeia Watch Cyprus.
